293 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley, 3150

0413 184 250 stuart.james@monash.vic.gov.au

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Congratulations to Monash Vale Early Learning Centre on their 25th anniversary. If you’ve never been to the centre before, it’s worth checking out. Brilliant facilities and the owners live next door, redefining the word “local”. I wish I’d found out about this place sooner.
**** UPDATE: TREES IN ATHERTON ROAD **** I’ve had a number of queries regarding the removal of trees along Atherton Road through the shopping strip, so I thought it best to provide a general update. In 2014, my wife and I went to a Council listening post in Warrawee Park to talk to then Councillors about planting Plane Trees all the way down the residential section of Atherton Road. It was this meeting that sparked my interest in running for Council in the first place. I grew up around Plane Trees and think they’re one of the most beautiful species that provide a magnificent boulevard once fully grown. Once Council dug up the road to redo the drainage systems in Atherton Road, it was discovered that the root systems had become a lot more invasive than we had assumed. If we had made a decision to cut these root systems back to the level required to protect infrastructure, it would have resulted in the trees themselves dying, or their structures compromised to the point where they would become unsafe. Originally the plan was to remove all of the trees in Atherton Road, but after some intense lobbying we have been able to keep a fair few of those originally slated for removal. Unfortunately, there was no way to safely keep the ones that have now been removed. New mature trees of around 5m (the largest we can source) will be planted in late April to replace those that have been removed. These trees will grow to a similar size of the existing trees and pruned each year to ensure that a boulevard canopy is recreated. We will also install root protection barriers to ensure infrastructure under the roads is not comprised. Overall we will see a net gain of around 18 trees between the fire station and Warrigal Road. I am as passionate about the canopy trees in Atherton Road as anybody, and live within walking distance of the shopping precinct. Rest assured that battles have been fought, and won, and the result will be a vast improvement, even if it does look a little bare in the interim. I look forward to providing a further update in early May once all the new trees are in place. Finally, it’s great to see that so many people are passionate about this issue and our local area. If any of you would like more detail on the project, or locations of the additional trees, please email me at stuart.james@monash.vic.gov.au and I’ll happily send it through.
‪Fantastic Transport Forum Executive briefing with former transport planner and newly elected MP for Box Hill, Paul Hamer MP We have a lot of common priorities and are looking forward to working with someone so passionate over the next four years‬
Which tank gets filled first?
Can’t think of a better thing to do on a Sunday afternoon in Summer than building new shelves for the garage. Lucky I had a great helper to get the job done
This is how my Friday night went after a long week at work. April’s been waiting two weeks for the courier company to find the final boxes, but all’s well that ends well. #daddyslife
‪Ten years ago today was the hottest day I can remember living through. I didn’t have air con at the time & remember bunkering up at home wearing not much. However nothing could compare‬ to the devastation that was unfolding on the Victorian community. My thoughts go out to all those recounting the devastation and loss of loved ones on that day. Today, more than ever, we stand as one!
Community meeting tonight followed by a simply amazing Mexican Parma at The Italian Corner Oakleigh; only $20 on Wednesday’s!! #supportlocal
Happy Chinese New Year - the year of the Pig. Translated : May you attain greater wealth.
We’re back at the Monash Aquatic & Recreation Centre for another term of swimming lessons. Where else would you rather be on a stinking hot day? #ThisIsMonash #LocalPool #SummerDays
Ripper. After five years, our Blood Plum tree is finally baring fruit. And they taste amazing 😍
From welcoming new citizens, to snags on the barbie in the park, to Gumbuya World. How did your day pan out? #AustraliaDay2019 #ThisIsMonash
There’s a lot of great Asian restaurants around, but if you’re looking for a contemporary take, Modu in Clayton is a great option Take the “fried milky dough” as an example (bottom left). It’s basically a fried doughnut with a bowl of sweetened condensed milk. Everyone remembers stealing Mum’s stash from the fridge as kids. Yuuuuuuuuuum
The Public Transport Users Association (PTUA), Committee winding down after a solid ten hour day of strategic planning. Another full day to come tomorrow before the hard work of implementation begins. Loving the amount of passion on display‬
Seems the leftovers from Just Italy are just as popular as the first time around. What a mess! #SupportLocal #Oakleigh #OakleighEast
Had a terrific night at the local Cricket Club last night with family and friends. Everyone loves a trivia night, and the Clayton District Cricket Club do it so well. One of the best I’ve been to; laid back, relaxed and some great people You don’t have to play sport to get involved in our terrific local sporting clubs. There’s plenty to choose from as well. Be part of something bigger! #SupportLocal #Clayton #TriviaNight
Everyone knows that Just Italy has the best hot chocolates in Oakleigh but did you know they’ve opened a second restaurant in Dandenong Road Oakleigh East? We popped in there for a quick meal last night and weren’t disappointed. Sam also owns the Golf Shop next door. Two birds, one stone. #Supportlocal #Oakleigh #OakleighEast
The covers are on in Sydney and it’s a cracking Sunday afternoon; perfect time for some gardening or home maintenance. Pop down to Bunnings in Centre Rd South Oakleigh, grab yourself a few sausages and support the Clayton Football & Netball Club #SupportLocal #Clayton
I can highly recommend the egg & bacon brioche buns at Temperance Society. I’m only slightly addicted and managed to restrict myself to two today. #Hughesdale #SupportLocal
When you can’t be bothered cooking on a Friday over the “holiday period”. Pretty happy I beat this queue to order, which is out the door. I waited more than half an hour as it was. Make sure you book ahead online!! Oakleigh Fish 'N Chippery #SupportLocal
A while ago I had a terribly sore throat and runny nose (yes, the flu). It was driving me nuts so I popped in to Nature's Intentions (Botaniko) in Portman Street, Oakleigh. Within a day I was back to normal. At this time of year, this might be just the shop you need to help recover from one too many red wines. It’s a lovely little shop with a beautiful ambience. Pop in, have a cup of tea and check it out #Oakleigh #SupportLocal #PortmanSt
Merry Christmas everyone; hope you’re all having a brilliant day, just as we are. Be safe out there and if you’re drinking, catch a cab; whatever it costs will be cheaper than your life.
Christmas Eve, a hot 33 degrees and the Oakleigh Pool; looks like we’re not the only cool kids on the block. It’s been a busy year and next year is going to be just as busy. From my family to yours, have a terrific Christmas and New Year period. A special thanks to those of you working through the festive season, particularly our emergency services for keeping us all safe. Council services operate throughout the break as well, with bins collected on Christmas Day. Oakleigh Recreation Centre City of Monash Victoria Police Ambulance Victoria MFB CFA Victoria State Emergency Service
Great night out celebrating Christmas early with the South East Volunteers at the Glen Waverley Bowls Club. We also acknowledged some massive milestones with volunteers receiving their 15, 17 and 20 year milestones. Astonishing.
Great afternoon at the Oakleigh District Christmas party. I absolutely love this club, so many genuinely passionate locals who are a lot of fun to be around. It’s like a second family. Oakleigh District Football Netball Club
Excited to be one of the judges at the grand final of Christ Our Holy Redeemer Primary School Shark Tank. These kids are the future of our digital world - we’re in safe hands
We’re at Jells Park waiting for the City of Monash Carols by Candlelight to start. Looks like there are thousands here already. Are you on your way yet?
Another brilliant night out at #Oakleigh Carols in the Park. After being washed out last year it was great to by back in Warrawee Park on a balmy Melbourne evening. We even had a visit from Santa (not that I could get anywhere near him). Well done to the Combined Churches of Oakleigh on another fantastic event - 13 years and still going strong.
Pop down to Inchmeal in #NottingHill this afternoon for the annual Christmas Market. There’s some beautiful handmade crafts and great gift ideas. It’s on until 4pm. #SupportLocal
‪Brilliant evening at the Monash Business Awards hosted by Carman's Kitchen - a City of Monash local business in #Huntingdale.‬ ‪I may have gone a little overboard on the purchases, but can you blame me?‬ Oh, and by the way, did you know their coffee is only $2.50? 🤤 ‪#SupportLocal #ThisIsMonash‬
There’s a lot of disruption around Oakleigh and surrounds at the moment while we roll out our biggest asset renewal and pedestrian safety upgrades ever. We know it’s a busy time of the year and that disruptions are frustrating, but the better weather means we can get it over and done with sooner. We appreciate your patience while we upgrade your city; City of Monash
It’s December 1 today, the sun is shining and Summer has arrived. Do you know what else today is? It’s the first day of the annual OC Connections Christmas Tree sale. OC Connections have been providing services to people with an intellectual disability since 1950. They’re located on Warrigal Road just opposite the entrance to Chadstone. Nothing beats coming home to the smell of a fresh Christmas Tree. Pop down, buy a tree and support this fantastic local organisation. #Oakleigh #SupportLocal #Disabilities
Last week on my #DemocracyWalk to Amsleigh Park Primary I stumbled across this little hidden gem in Huntingdale Road, Oakleigh East. It might seem unassuming from the outside but the homemade Sri Lankan Cuisine at Aminoro Cafe is amazing and cooked with love. Pop in and check it out.
If there’s one thing we’re happy about at Commuters Count, it’s that residents in the Eastern Suburbs will no longer be taken for granted. We’re looking forward to working with returned MPs and new MPs alike to ensure the East gets their fair share of transport funding. Shaun Leane Matt Fregon Will Fowles Paul Hamer Dustin Halse David Hodgett Neil Angus Jackson Taylor Kim Wells Nick Wakeling Steve Dimopoulos Dan Andrews Mary Wooldridge
I deliberately keep my politics out of my role as a Councillor, but today I’m making an exception. I was good friends with Steve Dimopoulos MP prior to him being elected and we’ve become even closer since. Shortly after becoming a newly elected MP, decisions were made that were largely outside his control, with level crossing removals and taxi licenses. He copped a lot of anger, and rightly so, from affected residents but that didn’t deter him. Over the past 18 months, the two of us have done 39 street walks / pop-up offices, walking more than 600km. Steve is the definition of a hard working local member who deeply cares about his constituents. The people of Oakleigh have restored my faith in our political system, appropriately rewarding his hard work and dedication. I’m so proud of what Steve has achieved and equally as proud to call him my friend.
It annoys some people that they have to vote, but I enjoy it immensely. Regardless of which way your vote swings or who wins the election, take a moment to enjoy the ability to exercise your democratic rights. There are millions around the world who wish they could vote, and many who have died fighting for the right to. Never take it for granted!
Final night of the #NRC18 in the beautiful Alice Springs Town Council. If you’ve travelled overseas but still haven’t visited your own backyard, now’s a great time to start!
I ventured outside of my ward on the weekend and found this little gem in Mt Waverley, Son of Tucci. Terrific coffee and absolutely sensational burgers. A little big and hard to eat, but I highly recommend swapping the mustard mayo with spicy mayo. Yuuuuuuum #SupportLocal #MTWaverley
At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month; we will remember them. #LestWeForget #CentenaryOfArmistice #Clayton
A massive night out at the Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL commemorating the Centenary of Armistice. Well done to the combined Rotary Clubs of Monash for organising the night Pictured here with Clare O'Neil MP, Steve Dimopoulos MP, Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL President Doug Pendergast and the Local Rotary Presidents who were in attendance
What answer do you get?
Earlier this year, City of Monash opened the brand new $2.9M pavilion at Scammel Reserve. The last missing piece of the puzzle is to fix up the inadequate lighting at the venue. With the explosion of women’s sport in recent years, demands for ground availability has never been so high. Upgrading the lighting will enable the ground to be used to host night games, opening up sport and increasing participation. I was excited that last week the Minister for Sport John Eren MP and Steve Dimopoulos MP announced $120,000 towards this project. I will be sponsoring a budget bid for 2019/20 to match this funding and finally get this critical infrastructure delivered. Oakleigh Amateur Football Club O.Y.C.F.C - Oakleigh Dragons Junior Football Club
‪Our Commuters Count State Election scorecard. It’s not too late to join our campaign; http://etc.org.au/buses‬
Great to be at the launch of a new local business in Oakleigh, OBrien Real Estate. I’d never tried Prosecco before but I’m definitely a fan. With Steve Dimopoulos MP and Frank Valentic from The Block
Every year at school I looked forward to the annual fete. I might be a little older now, but old habits die hard. Now April gives me an excuse to enjoy it all again. The best bit about the COHR 2018 Fete was that it ran in to the night. And those hot jam donuts........yum!!
My wife keeps telling me how young we are. Well, last night my eldest child graduated from Year 12. What an amazing young woman she has turned in to; I’m so incredibly proud of her genuine compassion and dedication to her family. I won’t say she’s amazingly intelligent, because I’ll never live it down. Suddenly I don’t feel that young. At Montmorency Secondary College)
Last week at the Cerebral Palsy Education Centre / City of Monash Mayoral Golf Day I met two inspirational young ladies, Brooke and her mum Sue. It was incredibly inspiring to listen to their journey. As a father of three, it bought tears to my eyes listening to the pure dedication and sacrifices made. I remain in awe of the people who spend their lives helping others in situations like these. Did you know that one child is born with Cerebal Palsy every 15 hours, that 80% of CPEC children attend mainstream schools and that they receive absolutely NO Government funding You can help – https://goo.gl/JdPDUQ
I know I joke about not crossing Poath Road, but it was worth it to visit the amazing The Handmade Show. They have brilliant stalls with products made by locals, for locals, and have a market most months. Their next on is Nov 17; put it in your calendar Pictured here with one of my favourite local handmade artists, StitchedUpCraft (https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/stitched-up-craft/patterns)
There’s a lot of fun to be had at your local Notting Hill Neighbourhood House this evening. Come along to the Halloween party, running through to 8pm, grab something to eat and meet some of your neighbours
‪Tonight I’m at the Public Transport Users Association AGM discussing transport issues across our state Congratulations to Clay Lucas (The Age) and Andrew Lund (9 News Melbourne), joint winners of the Paul Mees award‬
This morning it’s Zoe’s first swimming lesson. April has had hers, showered and dressed. What an effort, I’m almost ready for a nap I was pleased to have my budget bid for additional family change rooms at the centre approved - they’ll be coming soon, and not before time I’m so proud of staff at the Monash Aquatic & Recreation Centre. They handle hundreds of kids every day with minimal fuss
Did you know that 90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer survive? The earlier the detection, the higher your chances of recovery. If you’re over the age of 50, it’s time to stop putting it off. Ring BreastScreen Victoria and make your FREE appointment today! (At this mornings Pink Ribbon Fundraising breakfast at Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL. Thanks to the Onion Patch Bistro for the delicious food)
Another great night at Robert Blackwood Hall welcoming our newest Australian citizens to the City of Monash. Always so much joy and excitement at obtaining something so many of us take for granted
Where else would you be on a warm spring day in Melbourne other than Eaton Mall? We’re so incredibly lucky to live within walking distance of this magnificent hive of activity Early dinner with the kids at Mega Yeeros Oakleigh
These are the days where pop-up offices are a lot of fun. Short sleeve shirts and warm sunshine. At Inchmeal, Notting Hill today
Every night at bedtime, Donna and I read at least two stories to April. It’s an important part of her development and gives us some quality together. Technology has it’s place, but nothing beats a good book. When’s the last time you visited your local Monash Public Library Service?
Terrific to be at our amazing Cabena Playgroup late last month to hear Natalie Hutchins MP and Steve Dimopoulos MP announce $90k of funding to the City of Monash to deliver the Playing Fair program for playgroup facilitators to promote awareness of gender equity among children
Nothing beats a souvlaki from Vanilla in Eaton Mall on a balmy spring evening
Grand Final Holiday Eve is a popular night for sports clubs. Last night I travelled from Moorabbin to Mulgrave to attend the triple header of Presentation Nights; Clayton Football & Netball Club, Oakleigh Amateur Football Club & Oakleigh District Football Netball Club. Three great clubs each run by a fantastic band of volunteers. Well done to all involved
Look who I ran in to at Optus Stadium, fellow Commuters Count member Cr Mike Clarke from Yarra Ranges Council #SmallWorld #AFLEaglesDees Melbourne Football Club The Demon Army
Gameday with my little sister!! #AFLEaglesDees Melbourne Football Club
This week the City of Monash was at Oakleigh Station spruiking our plan for a redevelopment of the precinct. Visit our website to see the plan and let us know what you think https://www.monash.vic.gov.au/About-Us/Council/Have-Your-Say/Oakleigh-Public-Transport-Precinct-Proposal
Stoked to be at Caloola Reserve last week with my colleagues Cr Paul Klisaris and Cr Brian Little to hear John Eren MP commit $800,000 from the State Government towards the construction of 8 Tennis Courts and a new pavilion. The courts are due to open later this month and planning for the Pavillon is underway. This project will allow us to remove the courts outside the Oakleigh Recreation Centre to build the $23 million expansion. Exciting times for #Oakleigh and the City of Monash
Walking the streets talking with residents brings you across many local businesses in streets you’d never otherwise visit, like Ink Mind Core in Stanley Street, Mt Waverley. The menu is filled with Vegetarian and Vegan delights and they have a great wine list to boot. Pop in and check them out
This morning the City of Monash is at the Rotary Club of Oakleigh Sunday Market. April thinks the hotdogs are really good, so pop down, grab one and say hello
It was standing room only at today’s O.Y.C.F.C - Oakleigh Dragons Junior Football Club Presentation Day. The new club rooms were packed to the rafters, with people spilling outside. Phenomenal effort by all involved in building this great local club
‪Well done to the #Clayton Mandarin Friendship Association on a lovely #Mooncake festival‬
Last time the Melbourne Football Club played finals, there was no direct walk from Swanston Street to the Melbourne Cricket Ground via a bridge. This year, I can finally enjoy the walk to watch my team play on the hallowed turf. Win or lose, I’m happy to finally feel part of September #AFLDeesCats Melbourne Cricket Club
Corner Dandenong and Warrigal Roads looking South, 1937. Note the cenotaph just behind the boys head, which is now located in Warrawee Park. The Shell servo is also a little different these days.
Congratulations to the Clayton Football & Netball Club - Southern Football Netball League Premiers for 2018! Massive result given it’s their first year in the league. So proud of the girls. Go Clays!!
The Southern Football Netball League Women’s Grand Final is underway at Meade Reserve in Clayton between Clayton Football & Netball Club and Lyndhurst Football Club. Great start to the mighty Clays. Pop down and show your support Ping Clayton District Cricket Club
With ABC Melbourne’s Richelle Hunt, City of Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris & Deputy Mayor Shane McCluskey acknowledging some of the winners of our Community Awards Certainly one of my favourite nights of the year. These are just a few of the thousands of amazing volunteers that work so hard behind the scenes to make our great city what it is. Listening to their achievements make some so incredibly humbled and proud to be part of this amazing city 😍
Annnnd the last MTF Transport Forum is underway at the Box Hill Town Hall. We’re hearing from Labor Candidate for Box Hill Paul Hamer, MP for Box Hill Robert Clark MP and MP Samantha Dunn MP And, of course, the ETC (Commuters Count) also has a delegation here, fighting for better transport solutions for the East
Another community consultation session listening to City of Monash residents about what their issues and suggestions are. 15km walked yesterday, 11km today. I’m exhausted, and I have a long list of issues to follow up on, but at least I’ve done my exercise for the week
One thing I love about walking around the streets talking to residents is finding terrific local bakeries, just like Emporium 7 Cafe in Hampshire Road, Glen Waverley (just next to the servo on the corner of Blackburn and FTG Roads). Can highly recommend the sausage rolls and mango juice - yuuuuum 😋 #supportlocal #glenwaverley
Stepping outside my municipality this evening. Tapas with my parents, under an outdoor heater in the middle of winter in Degraves Street. Only in Melbourne.
Speaking at the Fund Rowville Rail Forum earlier this month about capacity issues on the Dandenong corridor and alternative ways to deliver heavy rail to Rowville. The Eastern Transport Coalition (Commuters Count), City of Monash and Knox City Council all have a heavy rail preference. It’s time! Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o59VWDOhuQ8
Great afternoon down at Poath Road Hughesdale today listening to buskers and watching magic tricks. Such a lovely local shopping strip with some brilliant local traders (and great coffee!). Pop down there!! #supportlocal #hughesdale #poathroad #poathrd Chichi House Cafe Wines On Poath Knafeh Nabulseyeh
While looking through my photos I came across this gem that I forgot to post. It was a fabulous sports night at the new Scammel Reserve clubrooms back in late June. We heard from WAFL stars Ellie Blackburn and Sara Perkins, current AFL player Sam Kerridge and former greats Billy Brownless and Matthew Richardson #localfooty #oakleigh O.Y.C.F.C - Oakleigh Dragons Junior Football Club
‪Tonight it’s another Transport Forum organised by MTF, this time at the Glen Eira town hall. Featuring Nick Staikos MP Sue Pennicuik, MP Asher Judah and moderated by the transport guru himself, Professor Graham Currie ‬
Tonight we’re hearing debate from Jacinta Allan Sam Hibbins and David Davis MP on transport policy at the MTF Transport Forum, hosted at #Melbourne #Townhall There are more local events coming up. Find yours at http://www.transportforum.org.au
‪August 1st, 1966; gang violence erupts in Melbourne under the reign of Liberal Premier, Sir Henry Bolte (in office 1955-1972). The White Australia policy didn’t even protect us!‬ ‪Gang violence has always been an issue but it doesn’t stop Andrew Bolt from taking racist pot shots‬
Tomorrow night I will be on the panel at this forum talking about Rowville Rail and expanding on my article in The Age. I encourage as many people as possible to attend Never give up. Commuters Count
This morning we’re back at one of our favourite places for brunch, Temperance Society in #Hughesdale. Great coffee and fabulous food, particularly their potato rosti 😍 Pop down, check it out and #supportlocal
Great afternoon at Oakleigh District Football Netball Club hearing from Dale “Flea” Weightman 1980 Premiership player, 3 time all Australian, 2 time Richmond FC best and fairest, AFL Hall of Fame, Richmond Hall of Fame and Team of the Century Dale had 9 coaches in 16 years but says his best coach was his Dad
Today is my eldest daughters 18th Birthday. I’m so incredibly proud of the beautiful young woman she has become, but damn I feel old right now
This is Sphere Cafe on Huntingdale Road, a block up from Highbury Road. Their Vietnamese rolls are absolutely to die for (only Mon-Fri sadly). Pop past for breakfast when you’re in the area; you won’t be disappointed
‪Wrapping up a great weekend with The Chaser/War on Waste star Craig Reucassel, talking waste and recycling at the Municipal Association of Victoria’s #CDW2018‬
Exciting evening opening the new $2.8M club rooms at Scammel Reserve. This has been a project more than a decade in the making and the result has been a building that is the envy of every other club Well done O.Y.C.F.C - Oakleigh Dragons Junior Football Club, Krushers Cricket Club, Oakleigh Cricket Club, Oakleigh Amateur Football Club & City of Monash
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